Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors

Topic Contents

Topic Contents

Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors

Information about this medicine

What are the most important things you need to know about your medicines?

Make sure you know about each of the medicines you take. This includes why you take
it, how to take it, what you can expect while you're taking it, and any warnings about
the medicine.

The information provided here is general. So be sure to read the information that
came with your medicine. If you have any questions or concerns, talk to your pharmacist
or doctor.

Why are ACE inhibitors used?

ACE inhibitors are used for many heart and blood vessel problems. For example, they
may be used if you have:

Coronary artery disease.

Heart failure.

High blood pressure.

Kidney problems.

ACE inhibitors are safe and effective medicines that help you feel better and live
longer. They can help prevent many heart and blood vessel problems.

What are some examples of ACE inhibitors?

Here are some examples of ACE inhibitors. For each item in the list, the generic name
is first, followed by any brand names.

benazepril (Lotensin)

captopril (Capoten)

enalapril (Vasotec)

ramipril (Altace)

lisinopril (Prinivil, Zestril)

This is not a complete list of ACE inhibitors.

What about side effects?

A dry cough is one of the most common side effects of ACE inhibitors. But most people
don't get a cough. Some people feel dizzy or lightheaded when they use ACE inhibitors.

General information about side effects

All medicines can cause side effects. Many people don't have side effects. And minor
side effects sometimes go away after a while.

But sometimes side effects can be a problem or can be serious.

If you're having problems with side effects, talk to your doctor. He or she may be
able to lower your dose or change to a different medicine.

You will likely have regular blood tests to monitor how the medicine is working in
your body and to see if this medicine is causing problems.

Always be sure you get specific information on the medicine you're taking. For a full
list of side effects, check the information that came with the medicine you're using.
If you have questions, talk to your pharmacist or doctor.

Cautions about ACE inhibitors

General cautions for all medicines include the following:

Allergic reactions: All medicines can cause a reaction. This can sometimes be an emergency. Before you
take any new medicine, tell the doctor or pharmacist about any past allergic reactions
you've had.

Drug interactions: Sometimes one medicine may keep another medicine from working well. Or you may get
a side effect you didn't expect. Medicines may also interact with certain foods or
drinks, like grapefruit juice and alcohol. Some interactions can be dangerous.

Harm to unborn babies and newborns: If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding, ask your doctor or
pharmacist if any of the medicines you take could harm your baby.

Other health problems: Before taking a medicine, be sure your doctor or pharmacist knows about all your
health problems. Other health problems may affect your medicine. Or the medicine for
one health problem may affect another health problem.

Always tell your doctor or pharmacist about all the medicines you take. This includes
prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, herbs, and supplements. That
information will help prevent serious problems.

Always be sure you get specific information on the medicine you're taking. For a full
list of warnings, check the information that came with the medicine you're using.
If you have questions, talk to your pharmacist or doctor.

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